‘While armchair generals – and Donald Trump – question Britain’s readiness, our servicemen and women are getting on with the job’
New depth of danger
While critics rushed to claim Britain was unprepared for potential conflict in Iran, our armed forces were already confronting a far more immediate threat – closer to home and far more dangerous.
Defence Secretary John Healey revealed three Russian submarines conducted a covert, month-long operation above vital Atlantic cables and pipelines north of the UK.
A warship and aircraft shadowed them around the clock. No damage was done, but the intent was chilling. This is the frontline of modern warfare.
Cut those cables, and Britain’s communications, energy, and economy could be thrown into chaos overnight. While armchair generals and Donald Trump questioned Britain’s readiness, our servicemen and women did what they always do: get on with the job.
No fuss. No fanfare. Just quiet vigilance, keeping us safe. The message to Vladimir Putin is unmistakable – we see you, and we are watching. The message to our brave men and women – thank you.
Age-old battle
Telling someone they have “had their day” simply because they hit 50 is not just insulting; it is wrong.
Angela Rippon was right to challenge the BBC when she was effectively told to step aside for younger faces. She pointed out that older male stars at the time, like Terry Wogan and Michael Parkinson, were not being shown the door.
Decades later, she has proved the point. Experience, judgment and professionalism are invaluable, not just in broadcasting but far beyond.
Too many older workers still face quiet pressure to move on, make way or disappear. They should not. If people want to keep working, they should be welcomed, not written off. Angela’s career shows talent does not expire, and neither should opportunity.
Welcome cure
Sometimes the simplest ideas deliver the biggest wins. Teaching children to take tablets instead of liquid medicine could save the NHS millions while making life easier for families. If young patients prefer tablets, it is a pill worth swallowing – good for kids, good for parents, and good for pressured budgets.
